Kull #3 Review

Kull and his new friend uncover a secretive plot.

I didn't exactly have rousing expectations for Dark Horse's new round of Robert E. Howard adaptations. Based on the quality of past Conan spinoffs, I figured barbarian lightning wasn't going to strike twice. Not only was I pleasantly surprised by these new books, I now find myself preferring Kull to Conan the Cimmerian on a consistent basis. Where Conan never quite recovered from his relaunch, Kull is currently living the exciting life in Valusia.

Issue #3 offers up a classic tale of REH horror. Kull ventures out into the night with his new Pictish ally. Together, they uncover a secret plot by a demonic race to assassinate Kull. The life of a king is never easy, but Kull has it harder than most.

As always, the project shines because of its faithfulness to the source material. Like the better Conan stories, Kull feels like a Howard story come to life. This series appeals to me so much because I find Kull offers more depth as a character than either Conan or Solomon Kane. This issue in particular highlights the ways in which Kull is forced to sacrifice his ideals and morals in order to retain his grasp on the Valusian throne. There's something to b said for the uncomplicated adventures of Conan, but after nearly 60 issues oft hat I just value what Kull has to offer.

Another thing this series has to offer is a strong set of pencils. Will Conrad immediately stood out in my mind as the best of the rotating artists that worked on the various Conan minis of years past. It's fitting that he receives a slightly more high profile project now. His figure work is excellent, packing far more detail into each panel than I expect from these books. I only wish Conrad gave his art a little more room to breathe. There are some great shots in here, but many feel cramped all the same.

I realize Conan still has his fans, and I count myself among them, but if you're reading Conan the Cimmerian and not Kull, you need to reevaluate your priorities a bit.
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